Exploring Philadelphia’s Top-Ranked High Schools: A Comprehensive Guide
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School stands out as the highest-ranked public high school in Philadelphia. Situated in the Spring Garden neighborhood, it serves grades 5 through 12. Its enrollment is approximately 1,186 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 22:1. The school boasts a 100% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 96.5, reflecting its rigorous academic standards.
The curriculum includes numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, fostering college preparation. Masterman’s excellence is nationally recognized, ranked 4th across the United States. Its focus on academic rigor and diverse extracurricular offerings attracts students from across the city seeking a challenging environment.
Central High School
Central High School is located in the Olney neighborhood and serves grades 9 through 12. With an enrollment of around 2,364 students and a student-teacher ratio of 20:1, it maintains a strong academic reputation. The school achieves a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 58.8, highlighting its effective college preparatory programs.
Offering a wide array of AP courses, Central has a long-standing history of academic excellence. Its large student body benefits from a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and leadership programs. Central High School remains a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s public education system.
Carver High School of Engineering and Science
Carver High School of Engineering and Science specializes in STEM education, emphasizing engineering and scientific disciplines. Located in North Philadelphia, it serves grades 9 through 12 with approximately 249 students and a student-teacher ratio of 17:1. The school reports a 100% graduation rate, demonstrating its commitment to student success.
College readiness for Carver is measured at 25.4, indicating room for growth in college preparedness. However, its specialized curriculum includes AP courses and partnerships with local industries, preparing students for careers in STEM fields. The school’s focus attracts highly motivated students interested in science and technology careers.
Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA)
CAPA is a magnet school based in South Philadelphia, serving grades 9 through 12. It enrolls about 743 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 19.6:1. CAPA’s unique programming includes intensive courses in creative writing, visual arts, instrumental music, theater, dance, vocal music, and media design.
Its rich history of producing notable artists and creatives underscores its reputation. Students benefit from specialized faculty and state-of-the-art facilities designed to nurture artistic talent. CAPA emphasizes balancing academic rigor with artistic development, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence.
Germantown Friends School
Germantown Friends School is a private Quaker institution located in the Germantown neighborhood. Serving grades 9 through 12, it enrolls approximately 500 students. The school offers a rigorous curriculum intertwined with strong community service commitments and ethical development programs.
The school emphasizes sustainability and climate action, notably through its Active Hope initiative. Its focus on ethical education and environmental responsibility prepares students for both academic and civic leadership roles.
Conestoga High School
Conestoga High School is situated in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, serving grades 9 through 12. It hosts around 2,347 students with a student-teacher ratio of 16:1. The school maintains a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 58.8.
Conestoga offers an extensive curriculum emphasizing college preparation and rigorous coursework. Recognized nationally, it combines academic excellence with a supportive extracurricular environment, including sports, arts, and leadership programs.
Radnor High School
Radnor High School is located in Radnor, Pennsylvania, serving grades 9-12. Its enrollment is approximately 1,126 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1. The school reports a 97% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 66.8.
Radnor offers a broad array of AP courses and extracurricular activities, contributing to its reputation for both academic and athletic achievement. Its small class sizes foster personalized instruction and community engagement.
MAST Community Charter School
MAST Community Charter School operates in Northeast Philadelphia, serving grades 9 through 12. With around 483 students and a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, it emphasizes STEM-focused education. The school maintains a 100% graduation rate and a high college readiness score of 88.
Its curriculum integrates technology, engineering, and science disciplines, preparing students for college and careers in STEM. The school’s success stems from its innovative teaching model and community partnerships.
Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP)
GAMP is a specialized high school located in South Philadelphia that emphasizes music and arts education. Serving grades 9-12, it enrolls about 235 students with an 18:1 student-teacher ratio. The program nurtures musical talents alongside academic growth.
GAMP’s graduates frequently excel in arts competitions and pursue higher education in music and related fields. Its collaborative environment encourages creativity, discipline, and artistic excellence.
Lower Merion High School
Lower Merion High School is situated in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. It serves grades 9-12 with approximately 1,721 students and a 12:1 student-teacher ratio. The school has a 97% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 66.8.
Its comprehensive academic programs include Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and diverse extracurricular options. The school is recognized for high college admission rates and athletic achievements.
Friends Select School
Friends Select School is a private Quaker institution located in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. It caters to grades 9-12 and enrolls about 400 students. The school emphasizes a rigorous academic program with a focus on community service, leadership, and ethical development.
The school’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is demonstrated through initiatives like its Active Hope program. Its close-knit community fosters individual growth and civic engagement.
Summary of Key Features of Top Philadelphia High Schools
| School | Grades | Enrollment | Student-Teacher Ratio | Graduation Rate | College Readiness Score | Special Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Julia R. Masterman | 5-12 | 1186 | 22:1 | 100% | 96.5 | Academic Rigor, AP Courses |
| Central High School | 9-12 | 2364 | 20:1 | 99% | 58.8 | Diverse Programs, AP Courses |
| Carver High School | 9-12 | 249 | 17:1 | 100% | 25.4 | STEM Focus |
| CAPA | 9-12 | 743 | 19.6:1 | Unknown | Unknown | Arts & Creativity |
| Germantown Friends | 9-12 | 500 | N/A | N/A | N/A | Ethical, Sustainability |
| Conestoga | 9-12 | 2347 | 16:1 | 99% | 58.8 | College Prep |
| Radnor | 9-12 | 1126 | 12:1 | 97% | 66.8 | Academic & Athletics |
| MAST Charter | 9-12 | 483 | 14:1 | 100% | 88 | STEM |
| GAMP | 9-12 | 235 | 18:1 | Unknown | Unknown | Music & Arts |
| Lower Merion | 9-12 | 1721 | 12:1 | 97% | 66.8 | Honors & AP Courses |
| Friends Select | 9-12 | 400 | N/A | Unknown | Unknown | Community & Ethics |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top-ranked public high school in Philadelphia?
Julia R. Masterman Secondary School is the highest-ranked public high school based on national standards, academic rigor, and college preparedness metrics.
Which schools focus specifically on arts and creative programs?
Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) and Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP) prioritize arts and creative disciplines, offering specialized programs in visual arts, music, dance, and theater.
Which schools have a STEM focus?
Carver High School of Engineering and Science and MAST Community Charter School emphasize science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, preparing students for careers in these fields.
What private high schools are recognized for their academic quality?
Germantown Friends School and Friends Select School are private Quaker institutions known for rigorous academics, community service, and ethical development.
Key Features of Philadelphia’s Most Recognized High Schools
This overview provides a comprehensive look at Philadelphia’s education landscape, emphasizing diversity in focus areas and academic excellence across top institutions.
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
